Announcement due in match-fixing probe

The Italian Football Federation will announce later today the names of any individuals or clubs to be charged over allegations of match-fixing.

The FIGC will release a statement after the Italian stock market closes at 4.30pm Irish time although it may be delayed to coincide with the end of Italy’s crucial World Cup match against the Czech Republic.

Any club or person charged would then face a sports tribunal next week in Rome.

The announcement comes after a lengthy investigation sparked when Italian newspapers released transcripts of taped conversations between former Juventus director Luciano Moggi and Pierluigi Pairetto, the FIGC official responsible for deciding which fixtures referees officiated in the 2004/05 season.

Defending Serie A champions Juve, AC Milan, Lazio and Fiorentina have all been investigated.

Any club found guilty could face heavy fines or relegation from the top flight. They could also be stripped of any trophies won.

Separate criminal prosecutions could follow the FIGC trial which is expected to deliver its verdicts between July 7 and 9.

Clubs will be able to appeal but the process must be completed by July 27, in time for the FIGC to submit to UEFA the names of the teams taking part in next season’s Champions League and UEFA Cup competitions.